emergency go bags for pets

It’s a good idea to have the right supplies on hand for your cat or dog just in case disaster strikes.

You may have an evacuation or emergency plan for the people in your life, but do you have one for your pets? A pet disaster prep kit can help give you peace of mind.

Information and resources to keep on hand

Current pet medical records and special needs
Current microchip information
A designated safe place, like a shelter or emergency clinic
Photos of your pet in case you get separated

Emergency pet preparation checklist

Food and water for three to seven days
Two weeks of medication (if needed)
Collapsible food and water bowls
Reflective tag for collars
Carrier or crate
Extra leash and harness
Blanket
Treats
Comfort toys
Pet first aid kit

Help for pets in the United States in case of natural disasters, power outage, and more

Crisis situations like hurricanes, fires, floods, and earthquakes can mean an emergency evacuation of your home. Here’s what to have on hand for your pet in case disaster strikes.

Two people walk side by side, one of them carrying a cat in a crate

Have a plan to take care of your furry friends

In addition to basic supplies for your pets, it helps to have a communication plan with humans too. Let family or friends know where you keep your evacuation kits, plus your plan for keeping your animals safe in an emergency. You can also purchase window clings or decals that alert first responders that pets are in the home and need to be rescued.

Keep all pet medical and microchip records up to date

Current vaccinations are especially important during emergencies to help protect your pet. A microchip can help you reunite with a lost BFF.

Plus, make sure to have printed paper copies of all records on hand. Online access to records isn’t always possible in an emergency.

Have pet carriers for cats or dogs handy

Each of your pets should have their own carrier, or leashes along with collars and harnesses if they’re too big to safely transport any other way. Keep these supplies where they’re easy to access.

It can also help to plan how you'll transport your pet's food. Ideally you should have at least two weeks’ supply, as well as access to bottled water.

If your pet is on medication, try to ensure you have an up-to-date supply in case of emergency. Your veterinary team is a great resource to help you plan.

Designate a safe place if you have to evacuate

If your home is not safe for you, it’s probably not safe for your pet. Find out what your local disaster assistance organizations provide for pets, and if local pet disaster assistance programs are available. Keep this info in your pet’s emergency kit and make sure family members know where to go.

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Worried about your pet? Ping Pet Chat^™!

Whether it's 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., connect with a real veterinary professional for immediate petcare advice. It's included in all Optimum Wellness Plans^®!

How Banfield can help in a pet emergency

Banfield’s focus is wellness care. In the case of an emergency, call your local veterinary team to see if they have the capacity to see your pet. If not, they may recommend that you go immediately to an emergency hospital.

Costs for urgent care services will depend on location, your pet’s needs, and the services provided. Please speak to your local Banfield veterinary team if you have questions regarding urgent care.

Pet urgent care advice

Call any local Banfield during hospital hours for advice. Depending on your pet's needs, we can provide a referral for local emergency hospitals or specialty providers. During non-hospital hours, please contact your local veterinary emergency hospital. Find a Banfield near you

Chat with a team member online

All pet Optimum Wellness Plans^® come with Pet Chat^TM for anytime, anywhere, 24/7 access to live general veterinary advice. Chat now

Access pet records in your MyBanfield account

Pet records are available 24/7 in MyBanfield both online and in our app. These include medical records, microchip information, and more. If you lose your records or can't get online, give us a call. A Banfield associate may be able to help you access the information you need.